Into the Wardrobe by David C. Downing offers some unique insights into the Chronicles of Narnia while keeping its scholarly views readable.

Downing begins his book rather unimaginatively with a brief biography of C. S. Lewis, but soon turns to explore the conception of each of the Chronicles in the order Lewis wrote them. The next chapter discusses the books’ spiritual vision, focusing on the various aspects of Aslan: creator, redeemer, judge, etc. In “Moral Psychology,” Downing points out how Lewis portrayed qualities both positive and negative, with Edmund and Eustace as examples. In “Classical and Medieval Elements”, the author demonstrates how Lewis used include hierarchy and chivalry within his series.

The heart of Downing’s book delves into the names Lewis gave to characters and places, and researches possible origins. Lucy and Jill were young girls Lewis knew, Aslan means “lion” in Turkish, and an Italian village was once called Narnia. The book ends with a chapter on Lewis’s literary abilities, an appendix of terms and allusions used in the Chronicles, extensive notes, bibliography, and index.

While Into the Wardrobe proves Downing’s claim of C. S. Lewis expert, one mistake jarred throughout the book. He seemed not to realize Jadis from The Magician’s Nephew and the White Witch of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe are the same person. He entertains the possibility due to a letter Lewis wrote, but completely ignores the White Witch being called Jadis in the report of Tumnus’ arrest.

Apart from this minor point, this book is an excellent resource for all Narnia fans. It offers insight for everyone who loves Narnia - from curious children to literary scholars - although its aim lies more toward the latter.